Physical Elder Abuse
- wounds, cuts, abrasions, burns
- bruises, welts, swelling
- broken bones
- sudden, inexplicable weight loss
- unexplained/hidden injuries
- unwarranted restraints
- specific complaints by residents
Mental Elder Abuse
- fear, agitation, hesitancy
- depression, withdrawal
- sudden behavior changes
- unusual behavior patterns
- unwillingness to communicate
- disorientation, confusion
- unjustified isolation
- rude, humiliating, derogatory comments by staff
- specific complaints by residents
Elder Abuse Neglect
- bed sores (decubitus ulcers)
- unsanitary environment
- malnutrition, dehydration
- smells of urine and/or feces
- unkempt appearance
- poor personal hygiene
- untreated medical condition
- specific complaints by residents
Exploitation/Financial Elder Abuse
- sudden, unjustified selling of property
- missing/stolen money or property
- radical changes in handling personal/financial affairs
- specific complaints by residents
Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
There are certain warning signs that can indicate nursing home abuse has and/or still is occurring. Some residents are hesitant to disclose instances of nursing home abuse out of fear that the abuse will get worse or because they do not want to burden their families. Some residents may not even be able to communicate that nursing home abuse is occurring due to physical or mental limitations. If there are any signs or indicators that nursing home abuse is present, immediate action should be taken.
- Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, sprains, or fractures in various stages of healing
- Bedsores or frozen joints
- Unexplained venereal disease or genital infections; vaginal or anal bleeding; torn, stained, or bloody underclothing
- Sudden changes in behavior
- Staff refusing to allow visitors to see resident or delays in allowing visitors to see resident
- Staff not allowing resident to be alone with visitor
- Resident being kept in an over-medicated state
- Loss of resident’s possessions
- Sudden large withdrawals from bank accounts or changes in banking practices
- Abrupt changes in will or other financial documents
